Vingada asks for extra effort, Guimaraes seeks consistency

"Tomorrow is a crucial game for us. If we are targeting the classification stage (the semifinals) I would be looking for something more from the players. They need to play like they are playing final," said NEUFC coach Nelo Vingada

NEUFC Head coach Nelo Vingada said that his side has been unluck in the tournament so far.

The players need to put extra effort and treat every game like a final to get back the winning rhythm, said the NorthEast United FC coach Nelo Vingada ahead of his team’s meeting with Mumbai City FC, which will happen here on Saturday.

“Tomorrow is a crucial game for us. If we are targeting the classification stage (the semifinals) I would be looking for something more from the players. They need to play like they are playing final,” Vingada stressed as he looks to turn the tide after two consecutive losses at home. “We may have made some suicidal miastakes in the last two matches but on the whole our game have been quite organised. I am generally quite satisfied with the way we have played,” he said.

Saying that luck has not sided with his team despite his players putting their best in the last few rounds, Vingada looked for fortune to favour his side in the second leg. “There is a matter of luck and we have been unlucky. I feel a lot of teams have been lucky at different stages, Vingada said. Coming to referring in the tournament, the seasoned Portuguese coach was balanced in his assessment. “Mistakes by the referees are a part of the game and there have been mistakes from our side as well. Mistakes happen and some sides gain but till now, we haven't had the benefit of anything,” he said.

Mumbai City FC coach Alexandre Guimaraes stressed on consistency as the strength of the team. “From our first game we have been in the top four till now. We will try very hard to keep that position. The teams are now starting to play with a greater tempo and are fighting to keep our rhythm intact. We have to continue to do the same,” Guimaraes said.

Saying that the confidence of the players is reflecting in the team’s performance, the Costa Rican coach said the players have shaped up to the challenge well. “I am very pleased. I had told the squad before the season that everyone has to be ready at all times in this kind of league. They are all prepared and none of them have disappointed us. We can count on all players in each position,” he said adding that there are some injury problems but enough options are available to make a good playing eleven.